Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of ex-servicemen, widows of fallen heroes and the Nigerian Legion, with the donation of ₦50 million during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Launching held at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi.
The Governor made the pledge on Wednesday while receiving members of the Nigerian Legion, Kebbi State Chapter, led by its Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Matawalle, at the official launch of the emblem in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
Governor Idris described the occasion as a solemn and significant noting that it provides an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of men and women who laid down their lives to keep Nigeria united, peaceful and secure.
“Without these heroes, there would be no Nigeria. Many of them paid the supreme price on the battlefield so that we can enjoy peace and unity today. As a government, we must always stand with them and their families,” he said.
He announced personal donation of ₦10 million by himself, his family and well-wishers, stressing that Kebbi State Government would honor its pledge to the Nigerian Legion, Kebbi State Chapter, to further support its welfare programmes and activities.
The Governor directed the Commissioner of Finance, the Accountant-General and the Director of Treasury to ensure the immediate release of the ₦50 million government donation, stressing that his administration does not make promises without fulfilling them.
“We do not believe in empty promises. By tomorrow, the government’s cheque should be ready, and my own contribution, together with that of my friends and well-wishers, will also be paid. All those who made pledges here should redeem them within one week,” he stated.
Governor Idris also addressed some of the concerns raised by the Legion, including the allocation of land for its members and participation in the Hajj. He assured that the land earlier approved for the Legion would be properly processed and handed over, while issues that affected the Hajj seats last year would not recur.
“You will be treated like any other group. What happened last year will not happen again, by the grace of God,” he assured.
Speaking earlier onbehalf of the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Kebbi State Chapter,retired Warrant Officer, Shehu Matawalle, thanked the Governor for his consistent support to the Legion and the families of fallen heroes.
He acknowledged the ₦50 million earlier donated by the state government, as well as the ₦50,000 support given to each Legionnaire who participated in last year’s activities.
He appealed for the renewal of the two Hajj seats earlier allocated to the Legion, the approval of land for residential purposes for Legion members, renovation of the Legion’s permanent office and provision of a bus to enhance their contribution to the state’s security architecture.
Alhaji Matawalle assured Governor Idris of the loyalty and support of over 20,000 Legion members and their families in Kebbi State, describing the Governor as a leader committed to the welfare of veterans and the development of the state.
Highlight of the event included donations made by Government officials led by the SSG, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida and head of security agencies to launch the Emblem in commemoration of Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration.
